Features

In its 2010 landmark decision in Padilla v. Kentucky, the U.S. Supreme Court held that defense counsel have an affirmative Sixth Amendment duty to advise noncitizen clients of the potential immigration consequences of their pleas. The decision overturned Wisconsin and federal court precedent and substantially affects Wisconsin prosecutors and defense counsel and their clients.

If a foreclosure involves a federal interest, the requirements of 28 U.S.C. § 2410 apply, preempting any conflicting state statutes. This overview helps attorneys navigate the federal process and avoid the common mistakes and problems that can slow down or derail a state foreclosure proceeding.

The State Bar is the organization it is today in large part because of the vision, hard work, and leadership of its office holders. Ever wonder what presidents do when their terms expire? Here’s a hint: They don’t just sit around.

Lawyers often ask exactly what comprises the contents of client files that should be returned to clients so they can continue their representation with new counsel. Should lawyers’ notes be included? Probably. What about administrative notes? Probably not.

Billing profitably and ethically can help build better client communications and increase your revenues 10 to 25 percent. Here are eight ways attorneys lose legitimate billable hours and fail to communicate effectively with clients, with solutions on how to bill more effectively.

Lawyers need to know the three major trends that are generating new professional legal liability exposures: technological advances, organizational reshuffling, and practice expansion. Read about some of the new insurance coverages that address these potential liabilities.